Japanese heart journal
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Six patients with d-transposition of the great arteries and 1 patient with tricuspid atresia were diagnosed echocardiographically. Balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) was performed successfully in all cases with the aid of two-dimensional echocardiography. ⋯ With the visualization of related cardiac structures during BAS, obstruction of the IVC with the balloon was also prevented. Using this method, bedside application of BAS is possible.